Dry ice or frozen carbon dioxide can be used for a variety of operations, from cooling chemicals to cinematic special effects. However, it is critical for your safety and that of others to know how to handle it properly.
Steps
Step 1. Read the information in the "Warnings" section
Handling dry ice is dangerous, as it can burn fabrics and vapors, in an unventilated place, can be toxic.
Step 2. Protect yourself by wearing a long sleeved shirt, long pants and closed shoes
Top it all off with work gloves and protective goggles.
Step 3. Put the dry ice in a bucket or container you bought it with
Step 4. Grab the dry ice with tongs
Metal pliers with serrated edges are ideal.
Step 5. Break the ice by placing a chisel in the desired spot and tapping lightly with a hammer
Step 6. Melt the ice when you're done breaking it by pouring hot water over it
Warnings
- Never let children handle dry ice and make sure they are away when using it.
- Dry ice burns and damages tissue - keep it away from your skin, eyes and mouth.
- Never use dry ice in an unventilated and closed place, because the gas emitted is dangerous if inhaled.
